New Year's Eve videos that will flood social media surely won't get 49ers fans as hyped as the one posted Tuesday by Earl Mitchell, announcing his return to the 49ers defensive line.
Mitchell, 32, was a veteran nose tackle and quiet leader the previous two seasons for the 49ers. After not playing in the NFL this regular season, a league source confirmed he's rejoining the playoff-bound franchise to help offset season-ending injuries to D.J. Jones (ankle) and Jullian Taylor (knee). The Athletic first reported Mitchell's return.
Two months after announcing his retirement, Mitchell posted a two-minute, Instagram video Tuesday featuring his 49ers highlights, captioned: "2020 starting off crazy!!!" Among the first to comment was Jones: "HE'sss BACKKKK."
The 49ers have yet to confirm Mitchell's signing or a corresponding roster move, only announcing they've signed former Detroit Lions defensive lineman Ray Smith to the practice squad. On Saturday, the 49ers promoted Kevin Givens from the practice squad and put Taylor on injured reserve. Sheldon Day also has seen an increase of snaps.
As the No. 1 seed, the 49ers don't open the NFC playoffs until Saturday, Jan. 11, at Levi's Stadium, against either the No. 6 Minnesota Vikings or the winner between the No. 4 Philadelphia Eagles and No. 5 Seattle Seahawks.
Mitchell spent training camp with the Seahawks and got cut before the season opener. He played for the Houston Texans (2010-13) and Miami Dolphins (2014-16) before joining the 49ers.
